The aftermath of Nepal's coup is shrouded in suspense. Will the Gen-Z movement usher in revolutionary change, or will it dwindle without a lasting resolution amidst its fragmented factions? The reality is that Gen-Z lacks a central figure.
Historically, Nepal has witnessed a similar uprising in 1996 led by CPN to dethrone the monarchy, culminating in success by 2006 and the abolition of the 240-year-old monarchy by 2008. Now, Gen-Z has risen against those who once ended the monarchy, forcing the current government to resign through a powerful movement. Despite the victory, questions about democracy's future have arisen.
The pressing questions resonate...
Is Gen-Z a mere pawn with a hidden face wielding power?
Is Nepal veering toward civil war?
Will an interim government form to appease Gen-Z's demands?
Will the army rule post-coup in Nepal?
Is the Gen-Z movement a harbinger of further danger?
These four names dominate discussions
Amidst Gen-Z's agitation in Nepal, four names are under the radar, fueling coup speculations. Let's uncover the identities that led Nepal to this juncture: Sudhan Gurung, Balen Shah, Ravi Lamichhane, and finally, Sushila Karki. These four are believed to mastermind the Gen-Z movement. The key question is, what role will they play in shaping Nepal's political future?
Understanding these pivotal figures sheds light on Nepal's current events. First, let's focus on the supposed faces of the movement.
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Name:
Sudhan Gurung, Profession: Social activist, Age: 36. Once a DJ and nightclub manager, he became popular among youth post-2015 earthquake through NGO work and later spearheading protests against social media bans during the COVID-19 pandemic. He vocally opposed police brutality, demanding PM Oli's resignation.
Name:
Balendra alias Balen Shah, Profession: Mayor of Kathmandu, Age: 35. From civil engineer and rap artist to politician, he gained fame battling corruption. He became Kathmandu's independent mayor in 2022, persistently critiquing the Oli government.
Source: aajtak
Another key figure, considered a behind-the-scenes orchestrator of the movement, comes into focus.
Name:
Ravi Lamichhane, Profession: Politician, Age: 51. A former journalist and anchor, he launched anti-corruption campaigns on his show, earning the youth's trust. In 2022, he formed a party that secured 20 seats, serving as Deputy PM, but faced a setback in 2023 due to lack of citizenship, followed by imprisonment in 2024 over corruption charges.
The former Supreme Court Chief Justice and foremost critic of the Oli government also sees her name linked to the movement.
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Name:
Sushila Karki, Profession: Former Judge, Author. Age: 73. From lawyer to Supreme Court judge, she became Nepal's Chief Justice in 2016. Following impeachment, she became a vocal critic of the government, joining young protestors.
Today, Sushila Karki might helm the interim government, a topic of much debate. Her discussions with the army chief at headquarters and Gen-Z backing add fuel to speculation. However, there's discord around Karki as various Gen-Z factions struggle for a consensus, given its lack of a singular leader or ideology. Divergent demands emerge post-coup: some seek a monarchy return, others democratic restoration, a new political system, a fresh constitution, or an interim government.
Source: aajtak
This confusion stalls a lasting solution post-coup, as the movement loses steam, yet major leaders are at risk. Reports suggest the army's command, safeguarding the president at military headquarters, alongside former PM Oli and ministers under protection, effectively running the nation from there.
Demand for the Monarchy Rising in Nepal
Amid Nepal's political crisis, the National Democracy Party (RPP) revives the call for constitutional monarchy. RPP senior leader Dhawal Shamsher Rana, in an exclusive conversation, emphasized the party's belief in monarchy for the nation's good.
Rana stated, 'We've always supported constitutional monarchy in Nepal. Currently, corruption poses the greatest challenge, disillusioning people with political parties. Should this trend continue, Nepal risks spiraling into instability.' He revealed potential party support for figures like Sushila Karki while affirming the party's sole belief in restoring monarchy for long-term stability. Challenges in advancing talks with the Gen-Z movement and interim government friction have intensified calls for monarchy's return. Rana asserts that parties like RPP grasp youth unrest and public discontent, recognizing monarchy as the most permanent path forward for the nation.
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What are Gen-Z protestors demanding?
Their agenda includes a ten-point outline: The First demand is for the immediate dissolution of Parliament by the President. Second, a road map draft should be prepared in collaboration with Sushila Karki. Third, present and implement the draft to the President. Fourth, modify the constitution according to the draft. Fifth, establish an interim government led by Sushila Karki. Sixth, form an interim cabinet with nine ministers from Gen-Z, Gen-Y, and Gen-X. Seventh, hold elections in 6-7 months. Eighth, ban corrupt leaders from elections. Ninth, maintain army coordination for peace restoration. Tenth, grant voting rights to the diaspora.
Source: aajtak
What's Next?
Gen-Z's rebellion has left an indelible mark, toppling the KP Sharma Oli government, a seismic event Nepal won't forget for decades. The upheaval has shaken the nation, prompting widespread contemplation of Nepal's future path and leadership. Approximately 30 million people call Nepal home, as Gen-Z asserts their aim isn't to dismantle the constitution, but dissolve Parliament. But, given the fallout and damage incurred, can Nepal recover from this path to power?
The Criticism Facing Nepal's Army
The Nepal Health Ministry reports 34 deaths and 1,033 injuries nationwide. The whereabouts of PM Oli remain unknown after reports of his helicopter journey. Despite army rule, the criticism against Nepal's military mounts, given their inability to secure key held buildings. Consequently, uncertainty clouds plans for interim government leadership.
